How Do You Know When It's Time to Replace Your PC?

Frequently Asked Question:

How Do You Know When It's Time to Replace Your PC?

Our technicians are often asked when it's time to retire a computer. The simple answer would to be to plan to purchase a new computer approximately every 3 to 5 years but we often see older computers in our shop for minor maintenance. While 4 or 5 years is old for most computers, there are light users who are able to continue working on a system that is 10 years old. While an older PC may work for some, there are some clear signs as to when it's time to replace your computer.

System is unable to run current software

In an ideal world we would all purchase our computers after carefully researching various products and planning for long-term use. This isn't always the case. A hasty purchase will more often than not result in early upgrades or regret. If your computer has already been upgraded and still cannot run the programs that you need to run, it's time for a new computer.

Unable to source parts

With time, computer components become harder to track down as the newer, more in demand, parts begin taking up shelf space. The high cost associated with creating and storing parts that will likely remain unused deters most companies and business from keeping them in stock.

This includes IDE hard drives, screens, motherboards and batteries for older laptops and AGP video cards.

Repair costs are too high

Certain parts are fairly interchangeable and can be replaced at a reasonable cost while others are not. If you have an older system, or if you purchased your computer at a low cost, paying a few hundred dollars for parts may not be worthwhile. The same goes for computers with multiple problems - like a dropped laptop that requires a DC jack and screen replacement, or a laptop in perfect condition that just happens to have a dead motherboard.


Replacing a computer is not often a pleasant experience - data needs to be transferred, software needs to be repurchased or reinstalled, and money needs to be spent. Custom desktop computers can be configured so that there is plenty of room for upgrades later on which usually means more money in your pocket.